MacT to coach Canada?

EDMONTON -- At the same time Craig MacTavish is contemplating turning in his resignation as coach of the Edmonton Oilers, Sun Media has learned he is about to be asked to consider becoming head coach of Team Canada at the world hockey championship in Switzerland.

"We have him on our short list," Hockey Canada president Bob Nicholson said. "Craig certainly has a shot. He's definitely in the mix."

If Nashville and Buffalo make the playoffs, MacTavish would be the only one on that list.

The other two on the list are Barry Trotz, for 10 seasons the coach of the Predators, and Lindy Ruff, for the past 11 years the coach of the Sabres.

Koharski refs last game

TAMPA, Fla. -- Don Koharski is ready for his next challenge.

The veteran referee completed a 32-year on-ice NHL career in last night's game between the Washington Capitals and the Tampa Bay Lightning.

"I'm ready," Koharski said before the game. "I just finished my last road trip, four games in eight days. At about Day 6 of the road trip, I said, 'Yeah, I made the right decision.' "

The 53-year-old Koharski is expected to join NHL management to work with and recruit on-ice officials.

"There's some opportunities knocking at the door for me, and I think I can make a difference off the ice," Koharski said.

The injury-depleted Lightning also recalled defenceman Kevin Quick from Norfolk of the AHL.

Kinrade became the 22nd different defenceman this season to play for the Lightning in last night's game against Washington. The total is four more than the previous record for defencemen used in one NHL season, set by the Edmonton in 1997-98.

Tampa Bay has used 50 players overall, which is five short of the NHL one-season mark of 55 held by the 1991-92 Boston Bruins.

Red Sox want Classic

BOSTON -- The Boston Red Sox are in discussions with the NHL to hold the next Winter Classic at Fenway Park.

A baseball official, speaking on the condition of anonymity because no deal had been reached, confirmed that Fenway is a site being considered for the next New Year's Day game. The outdoor game has been played at Ralph Wilson Stadium, the home of the Buffalo Bills, and the Chicago Cubs' Wrigley Field.

Red Sox catcher Jason Varitek said the game would be good publicity for hockey, but was more worried about his own sport.